St. Augustine Beach, August 6, 2025
News Summary
A 29-year-old teacher from Bartram Trail High School was arrested for allegedly engaging in inappropriate behavior in front of minors at St. Augustine Beach. Christopher Ford faces serious accusations after reportedly masturbating near a group of young girls, prompting outrage from parents. He has been placed on paid leave pending investigation, raising concerns about the safety of students at the school, which has seen multiple employee arrests over the last few years. The Superintendent intends to recommend Ford’s termination at an upcoming school board meeting.
St. Augustine Beach – A 29-year-old teacher from Bartram Trail High School, Christopher Ford, was arrested on Saturday by the St. Augustine Beach Police Department for allegedly engaging in inappropriate behavior in front of minors. The incident reportedly occurred at a local beach where Ford is accused of masturbating near a group of young girls, prompting concern from parents who witnessed the unsettling events unfold.
The arrest followed numerous complaints from parents who reported Ford’s conduct while he was near children swimming in the water. Witness accounts indicated that he intentionally positioned himself close to the girls, with reports stating that waves had inadvertently pushed one child into him, adding to the alarm of onlookers. Parents in the vicinity responded with outrage and fear for the safety of children at local schools, emphasizing the need for a thorough investigation into Ford’s behavior.
In light of the serious accusations, Ford has been placed on paid leave pending the investigation, with potential termination from his teaching position a likely outcome. The Superintendent of St. Johns County Schools announced intentions to recommend Ford’s firing at the upcoming school board meeting on September 9th. His case marks the third arrest of a Bartram Trail High School employee in the last three years, raising ongoing concerns about the school’s hiring practices and the safety of its students.
This incident follows the arrest of another Bartram teacher, Lucas Worsham, just last month, who was apprehended for soliciting prostitution online. In a separate case, former Bartram coach Tylar Reagan was arrested for sexually assaulting students in 2022 and was subsequently found guilty in 2023. These incidents have painted a concerning picture regarding staff conduct at the school.
According to police records, the investigation began after a 911 call was made reporting Ford’s alleged misconduct, specifically stating he was observed masturbating in close proximity to a group of girls aged 10 to 12. Further investigation revealed that he was lingering near a group of foreign exchange students and was accused of positioning himself to attract the attention of the minors when waves approached.
Several witnesses were interviewed by investigators, including a chaperone from North Carolina who observed his unsettling behavior, and a parent who reported alarming actions directed toward her children. Despite the multiple eyewitness accounts, Ford has denied any wrongdoing, claiming that no inappropriate actions took place and suggesting that the identification by witnesses may have been coincidental. He firmly asserted that he had not placed his hands in his shorts on that day, despite contradicting testimonies.
As the investigation continues, parents and community members are left grappling with the implications of these events on the safety of their children at school and in communal spaces. The fallout from this arrest could have lasting repercussions not only for Ford but for the Bartram Trail High School community, as they navigate these troubling revelations.
FAQ
Who was arrested?
Christopher Ford, a 29-year-old teacher from Bartram Trail High School, was arrested.
What are the allegations against Christopher Ford?
Ford is accused of masturbating in front of minors, specifically young girls aged 10 to 12, at St. Augustine Beach.
What has happened since his arrest?
He has been placed on paid leave during the investigation and faces possible termination. The Superintendent plans to recommend his firing at the next school board meeting on September 9th.
Has this incident led to other concerns about Bartram Trail High School?
Yes, Ford is the third employee arrested in three years, following incidents involving other staff which have raised concerns about student safety.
Key Features Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Accused Individual | Christopher Ford, 29, Bartram Trail High School teacher |
| Allegations | Inappropriate behavior in front of minors at St. Augustine Beach |
| Date of Arrest | Saturday, Date Not Specified |
| Previous Incidents | Third employee arrested at Bartram Trail High School in three years |
| Response by School | Placed on paid leave; recommendation for termination on September 9th |
| Community Reaction | Parents express alarm and concern for children’s safety |
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Additional Resources
- Action News Jax: St. Johns County Teacher Arrested
- SJ Citizen: Bartram Trail High School Teacher Accused
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- First Coast News: Chemistry Teacher Arrested
- Google Search: Teacher Arrested Lewd Behavior
Author: STAFF HERE HOUSTON TX WRITER
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